Specialist spine care • Dubai — UAE

Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF)

A posterior, usually one-sided approach allowing decompression and placement of an interbody implant in selected cases.

Dr Hani Abdelrahim
Medically reviewed by Dr Hani Abdelrahim AbdelrazekConsultant Spine Surgeon & Neurosurgeon • Dubai — UAE
Direct answer

A posterior, usually one-sided approach allowing decompression and placement of an interbody implant in selected cases. Decisions are based on symptoms, neurological examination and original imaging—not on a report or technique name alone.

Book an appointment with the doctor
01

When can a specialist consultation help?

A consultation can help when symptoms persist, affect mobility, work or sleep, or when you need a clear explanation of a diagnosis or proposed plan.

  • Demonstrated instability or spondylolisthesis
  • Pain or compression matching the imaging
  • Failure of appropriate care
  • Need to restore height or alignment
  • Need to compare surgical approaches
02

How is the condition assessed?

This approach is selected after reviewing the level, anatomy, bone quality and previous surgery. A potential advantage is Targeted decompression and fusion through a posterior approach.

Additional tests are considered only when they may change the decision, avoiding treatment of a scan finding without relating it to the patient.

03

Options that may be discussed

The order of options differs from person to person. Benefits, limitations, risks and alternatives are discussed before a plan is agreed.

  • Confirm a clear reason for fusion
  • Compare less invasive alternatives
  • Assess the need for direct decompression
  • Discuss approach-specific risks
  • Plan mobility and recovery individually
04

What happens after a plan is made?

Expected stay and return to work depend on the number of levels, general health and job demands. No single approach suits every patient.

Expected signs of progress, review timing and symptoms that need earlier reassessment are explained.

A clear journey from first contact

How do you begin with Dr Hani’s team?

01

Contact

Send a short message to book an appointment or a second-opinion consultation.

02

Coordinate

The team only helps select an available time and confirm the booking.

03

Assess

The doctor connects symptoms, examination and imaging before discussing a plan.

04

Plan

You receive a clear explanation of options, follow-up and recovery.

Clear answers

Frequently asked questions

Does seeing a spine surgeon mean I need surgery?

No. The aim is a clear diagnosis and discussion of all options. Many patients begin with non-surgical care when it is appropriate and safe.

Is an MRI enough to choose treatment?

No. MRI findings must match the symptoms and examination because some changes are present in people without symptoms.

Is endoscopy suitable for every disc problem?

No. Suitability depends on compression location, access anatomy and symptoms. Microscopic surgery or non-surgical care may be better in other cases.

How should I prepare for consultation?

Bring original imaging, reports and a list of previous treatments. Note your main questions and the function you want to regain, such as walking, sleeping or returning to work.

Can I request a second opinion before surgery?

Yes. Book an appointment with Dr Hani and discuss the diagnosis, imaging and proposed plan directly with the doctor during the in-clinic consultation. The team’s role is limited to booking.

Medical information notice

This content is general education, not an individual diagnosis or a promise of outcome. Plans and results vary by patient and require specialist assessment.

Your next step

Book your assessment with Dr Hani

Contact the team on WhatsApp to arrange an appointment with the doctor; the team’s role is limited to booking and confirmation.

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